Trend: Alpine Artisan

Menswear continues to reference the rustic mountain man for Fall/Winter 2016 with the Alpine Artisan. This adventurous sartorialist draws inspiration from the colors, textures, prints, and silhouettes of the mid-century Austrian shepherd. The Alpine Artisan gives a refined, European update to recent seasonal reoccurrences of mountain men-inspired trends. Rustic, natural qualities remain easily relatable, while revitalized Alpine details provide sources of inspiration for the fashion-forward man to make his own.

Colorful Earth Tones
Earthy hues in rich and muted tones are the foundation of the fall palette. Warm Brick Red and Burnt Orange are indicative of the rustic comfort of a wooden chalet. Natural Four Leaf Clover and Fall Leaf mirror the restful expanse of grassy hillsides and tree-lined Alps. Deep Taupe and rich Baltic embody the cool tones of rocky mountainsides and wide open skies, providing a contrasting element of coolness to the palette. Color use varies from subtle detailing and trim to bold stand-alone statement pieces.

Statement Jackets
Jackets are the stand-out statement piece of the season. Innovative silhouettes highlight elements of distinctive shape and design with nods to traditional Austrian military-wear. Sophisticated revival of collars, pockets, and trims further incorporates Alpine detailing. Fabric choices reference conventional outerwear textiles of heavy wools and tweeds, but are paired with contrasting trimmings and accents for a contemporary update.

Shearlings & Suedes
​Shearling and suede are once again reoccurring elements this season. Used both separately and paired together, they are incorporated into trim accents and full garment designs. Interchangeable shearling appears on exteriors in addition to continuing to serve as a go-to lining material.

Knitwear
​Knitwear is incredibly indicative of the mountain man, highlighting Fair Isle prints, heavy cable stitches, and chunky details. Oversized collars replicate hand-knitted scarves and highland layering. Solid-color knitwear is heavily texturized and accented with artisanal toggles and closures. Patterned knitwear finds inspiration in traditional Fair Isle colors and designs.

Crafted Details
​The traditional Alpine style is centered around details. Hand-made, artisanal qualities are replicated in buttons, clasps, and closures. Soft, worn leather accents are visible in belts, accessories, and shoulder and elbow pads. Layering of prints, fabrics, and silhouettes enhances textural qualities and supports the rustic mountain man's aesthetic. Textiles once again reference a nod to the past this season. 

Rustic Textiles
Traditional plaids from buffalo checks to tartans are updated for the color-savvy contemporary man. Alpine and Nordic inspirations repeated from knitwear patterns to print designs. Simplified, natural colorways coordinate effortlessly, enabling successful layering of colors and prints. Varieties of fabric weights and textures further enhance layering effects.